‘I don’t work for Netanyahu': Ofer Winter tries to be Israel's next kingmaker - interview
Winter hopes for a double-digit seat tally, drawing support from the Likud, other right-wing parties, the center, and first-time voters. That remained his assessment of his party’s potential.
Ofer Winter, a former soldier with no prior political experience, is attempting to become Israel's next kingmaker. Following the October 7 massacre, Winter's political party, Amcha Yisrael, or People of Israel, aimed to transform Israel's political Right. Winter argued that new people with power could change Israel's political landscape, even under Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.
Winter did not work for Netanyahu or any other political figure. He sought enough support to enter the Knesset and influence the government. His candidacy attracted support from various groups, including haredi, settler, and non-religious individuals. Winter's diverse slate included immigrants, advocates for Israel abroad, and those whose families were affected by the war.
Winter's platform included changing military doctrine from containment to decisive victory. He aimed to have a Defense Ministry, but he realized he needed enough votes to enter the Knesset first. Winter also expressed willingness to work with other parties, such as Bezalel Smotrich's Religious Zionist Party and former Prime Minister Naftali Bennett, to form a broad government.
Winter was unequivocal about Netanyahu's responsibility, stating that he was responsible for the current state of affairs. He criticized the military and Shin Bet for their immediate failures. Winter's unique background as a former soldier and his commitment to Israel's Jewish character differentiated him from other candidates.
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